U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters on 30/11 that the suspension of asylum consideration "has no time limit, but it could last for an extended period," when asked about its duration.

Trump reiterated that the U.S. "already has enough problems and does not want those people." He added, "Do people know why we do not want them? Because many are not good people and should not be in this country."

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated on the same day that the administration believes Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan migrant accused of shooting two National Guard soldiers near the White House on 26/11, was not "radicalized" until he resided in the U.S. She noted that investigators are seeking additional information from the suspect's family and other individuals.

A nun accompanies two refugees in an immigration court in New York, U.S. on 1/8. Photo: AP

The Trump administration issued an order last week to halt asylum consideration following the shooting of two National Guard soldiers, which resulted in one fatality due to severe injuries and left the other in critical condition.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security indicated that 19 countries would be impacted by this decision, including Afghanistan, Cuba, Haiti, Iran, and Myanmar. These nations have been subject to U.S. travel restrictions since June.

Lakanwal, the 29-year-old Afghan citizen, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. He was a member of a "partner force" supported by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to combat the Taliban during the conflict in Afghanistan.

Lakanwal entered the U.S. as part of a resettlement program initiated by former President Joe Biden's administration, following the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan in 2021.

The suspect was granted asylum in 4/2025 during President Trump's term. However, U.S. officials initially attributed blame to the previous administration for insufficient vetting when Lakanwal was permitted entry.

Pham Giang (According to AFP, Reuters)